There are 4 areas in sports
performance where training will enhance speed.

1.Reaction to a signal (i.e. the gun)

2.Capacity to accelerate

3.Capacity to maintain maximum speed
once it is reached - In the 100m this is determined by co-ordination rather than
endurance and as the distance increases the greater the effect that endurance
plays.

4.Capacity to limit the effect of
endurance factors on speed - the rate at which fuel reaches the working muscles
and waste products are removed

Studies sponsored by the US Olympic
committee identified the following significant variables in a successful
full-speed sprint:-

-Greater stride rate

-Lesser support time

-Minimal upper-leg extension at
takeoff

-Greater upper-leg rotational speed
during the support phase

-Greater lower-leg rotational speed
at touchdown

-Short foot-to-body distance at
touchdown

-Greater backward foot speed relative
to the body at touchdown

All athletes training exclusively for
sprints will inevitably reach a limit or speed barrier but practices such as
forced speed with an elastic rope, and assisted speed (wind assisted, down hill,
altitude sprinting) may help overcome this barrier.

The criteria for classifying what is
walking is that one foot must always be in contact with the ground and the
advancing leg must be straightened from first contact with ground until upright
position.

HURDLING

SPRINT HURDLES

All athletes use a 3 stride pattern
between hurdles

400 HURDLES

The stride pattern used in the 400
hurdles depends on the athletes stride length, and ability

RELAY

The relay is the only opportunity
that athletes get to really work as a team.